PART 6: The Call
The silence that followed Verónica’s confession was heavy, suffocating, and absolute.
In my arms, Mateo stirred, whimpering softly. I looked down at him and realized that every second we stayed in this house was a danger to his fragile life. He needed a hospital, food, clean water, and medical attention immediately.
I gently set Mateo down next to Camila, who immediately wrapped her small arms around her brother’s waist, whispering comforting words that only a five-year-old could invent.
I turned back to Verónica, who was still huddled against the wall, paralyzed by her own cowardice and guilt.
—Where is Eduardo? —I asked, my voice cold, steady, and devoid of any human warmth.
Verónica swallowed hard, her eyes darting toward the front door.
—He... he's at his office in downtown Querétaro. He was supposed to come back this evening.
I reached into my pocket, pulled out my phone, and unlocked the screen. Without hesitation, I dialed the emergency services number. My fingers didn't shake; all the shock had hardened into a singular, unyielding purpose.
May you like
—Yes, I need emergency police assistance and an ambulance at [address redacted for privacy] in Querétaro —I spoke clearly into the receiver, keeping my eyes fixed on my sister. —I have recovered my son, who was reported missing eleven months ago. The kidnapper is my brother-in-law, Eduardo [last name], and he is currently at his office downtown. Send units to secure him immediately.
Verónica didn't try to stop me. She simply closed her eyes and let out a long, shuddering sigh, as if a terrible, crushing weight had finally been lifted, even as the prison doors prepared to slam shut around her.
